By the name itself, “comedy” bars serve the purpose of entertainment. Unlike the usual bars in the metro where people mainly engage in social drinking, or it may be an ideal place for peer gathering, comedy bars feature stage performers who also host the show. It is more fun here since there is an expected happening right before the audience’s eyes. The best part is, anyone and everyone can participate to sing along with the hosts, or can bravely go solo on stage if they opt to.

In Quezon City, particularly along Quezon, Timog and West Avenues, thrive these vibrant comedy bars: Klownz, Punchline, Laffline, Zirkoh and Metro Bar. No one can get wrong to visit, such as circle of friends who are up for a gimmick night, flock of students who are thankful they have passed their exams and making this night-out as a reward for themselves, families bonding with their balikbayan relatives, couples who choose to experience a not-so-romantic date, and the rest make their way to the bar for celebration of birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, etc.

Yet, comedy bars aren’t merely accessible for people in the metropolitan. I am a witness myself… When asked by the host, the audience would find out that there are guests from neighboring cities and towns, balikbayans and even foreigners are part of the crowd who came to see the show for the night. In Zirkoh, the most-awaited performance starts at 12 midnight, same time when the “Showdown” begins. It features well-known artists, both in Philippine Television and Music, who have prepared their own repertoire.

…And again, who says these talents are for Philippines alone? Rex Navarrete, a US-based comedian, has represented the genuine Filipino humor almost all over the world. He did a lot of tours from Europe, Canada and the Asia Pacific region. Early this year, he came for another visit to Manila with a 3-day performance in separate venues, leaving his kababayans in extreme laughter. His name has been famous not only in his homeland but surprisingly, he makes Filipinos proud with this trademark in every place he goes.